“Those who receive the training will be able to give initial assistance and then advice about where to go for help, if needed. The NSW Government is committed to improving the wellbeing of seniors and this initiative is just one piece of the puzzle.”

Wesley Mission will deliver OPMHFA training in Sydney, South Eastern Sydney (including St Vincent’s Health Network), Northern Sydney, Southern NSW, Murrumbidgee and Far West Local Health Districts. It is one of several organisations which will deliver training. All successful organisations have identified experienced trainers to complete instructor training with Mental Health First Aid Australia, with a further $100,000 project funding provided to cover the costs of instructor training.

The CEO of Wesley Mission, the Rev Keith Garner said Wesley Mission was delighted with the opportunity to provide Older Persons Mental Health First Aid training.

“Mental Health First Aid training is important for early intervention, maintaining the dignity and well-being of individuals and building our community’s capacity to care.”

In 2018-19 the NSW Government will invest $100 million as part of the Government’s 10-year vision for mental health reform in NSW, recognising that improving mental health outcomes for the people of NSW involves a whole of government reform agenda.

The Older Person Mental Health First Aid training workshops will build on the successful Youth Mental Health First Aid training workshops funded by the NSW Government and delivered by Wesley Mission in 2016-17.

Older Person Mental Health First Aid training is expected to begin across NSW from October this year, with successful organisations promoting the training and taking registrations in their delivery regions.

If you or someone you know needs crisis support please phone Lifeline on 13 11 14. For more information on where to find mental health services in your community contact the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.